Transition stress refers to the period of substantial metabolic and physiological strain, which usually lasts from three weeks before to three weeks after calving. It is the crucial period in the life of dairy cattle. Therefore, it is essential to manage this stress effectively to maintain the proper health of the cattle and productivity as well. This transition stress is represented by a negative balance of energy because the cattle’s energy demand exceeds their intake. This can lead to increased risk of diseases like ketosis and mastitis, immune suppression, and even reduced fertility. The bodies of the cattle are prepared for lactation during this period of transition stress. If there exists a high imbalance in any nutritional component, it affects their immunity, reproductive efficacy, and productivity. This stress is directly linked to periparturient diseases like hypocalcemia and ruminal acidosis. It is necessary to manage stress effectively in order to prevent diseases and to achieve optimum productivity.
Even though the period of transition stress includes 120 days, the most significant period is 21 days prior to and 21 days after calving. During this period, multiple metabolic alterations take place to address the negative balance of energy as well as the calving stress. The energy deficit increases with the increase in the transition stress. Negative balance of energy accumulates body fat, which results in the formation and utilisation of NEFA (Non-Esterified Fatty Acids). It leads to the loss of Body Condition Score (BCS). For glucose synthesis, gluconeogenesis is utilised. Hence, the peripheral glucose utilization is reduced. All these modifications aim at leading more glucose towards the mammary gland. There exists an increased need for metabolizable protein, that is, lysine and methionine.
Hormonal alterations
The hormones which are included in these alterations are estrogens, progesterone, prolactin, insulin, glucagon, placental lactogens, thyroid hormone, somatotropin, and glucocorticoids. These hormonal alterations are increased fat breakdown, increased glycogenolysis, increased gluconeogenesis, decreased fat synthesis, increased use of lipids as the energy source, increased protein and mobilisation of minerals from their reserves, as well as increased nutrient and mineral absorption.
Managing the transition stress
Significant strategies for managing the period of transition stress
- Environmental management – It aims at reducing stress by managing humidity as well as temperature. Environmental stress involves heat stress and excessive humidity. This stress affects the buildup of oxidative stress in the cattle. Therefore, we need to control the environment via proper ventilation, humidity control, temperature control and cleanliness, and oxidative stress can be reduced. Hence, pathological changes can be minimised. It can be further achieved by providing proper space and resting areas that are comfortable.
- Nutritional management – This management aims at addressing the Energy density, mineral and protein supplementation and preventing periparturient diseases. The important mineral element is Calcium. The optimal blood level of Calcium is maintained through the hormonal interplay of parathormone and calcitonin. When the blood level of Calcium increases, calcitonin promotes Calcium’s bone deposition. Parathormone increases the internal absorption of Calcium by activating the production of Vitamin D3 when the blood levels drop.
Carefully managing the period of transition stress through diet can have a positive effect on the health as well as the productivity of the cattle.
Conclusion
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